Welcome to HALO Talks! In this episode, host Pete Moore sits down with Hewitt Tomlin, the entrepreneur behind Teambuildr—a software platform that's changing the game on how strength coaches and personal trainers deliver programming. Starting with a simple idea in college, Hewitt has built Teambuildr into a leading solution for gyms, coaches, and athletes, empowering thousands with better tools for training and performance.

Together, they dive into the rapidly-evolving landscape of fitness technology, discussing the rise of strength training in gyms, the impact of AI on coaching, and how fitness pros are adapting to new ways of working in a post-pandemic world. From leveraging digital apps for personalized programs to building strong trainer-client relationships, this candid conversation uncovers what it takes to stay innovative in the fast-paced HALO sector.

Tomlin also shares his passion for expanding athletic training into new markets specifically golf—with his involvement in DRVN, a fitness app aimed at merging athleticism with golf performance.

Key themes discussed

• Evolution of Teambuildr and fitness technology.
• Adoption of AI by strength coaches and trainers.
• Changing trends in club equipment, focus on strength.
• Personal trainers utilizing digital tools and apps.
• Balancing innovation vs. refining existing product features.
• Retention vs. impact as a measure of success.
• Entrepreneurial mindset and self-defined business goals.

A Few Key Takeaways:

1.Evolution of Teambuildr and Fitness Tech: Hewitt shared the journey of Teambuildr—from its origins as a simple workout distribution platform for college strength coaches to its role as a robust SaaS solution that now supports thousands, not only in team sports but also across private gyms and brick-and-mortar facilities.

2. AI's Role in Coaching: The conversation highlighted how fitness software is rapidly moving from basic digitization (getting off Excel) to integrating AI. Early adopters among coaches are using AI as a "co-pilot" to enhance programming and audit workouts, freeing up more time to apply their expertise where it matters most.

3. Changing Attitudes Toward Training Technology: Tomlin also talked about the shift in the industry: while trainers were once skeptical about templates and AI-generated programs, there's now a broader acceptance of tech-driven best practices. Still, personalization and expertise remain key, especially for more seasoned coaches.

4. The Personal Trainer's Balancing Act: Independence vs Community: Post-COVID, many trainers tried going independent, but Hewitt noted the challenges of customer acquisition and scaling. Bigger box clubs like Lifetime offer access to a steady stream of potential clients and a sense of community, making them an attractive option for many trainers seeking sustained growth.

5. Founder Perspective: Success Isn't Just About Growth: The episode also touched on how Hewitt's vision as a founder goes beyond revenue metrics and external pressures. He values building loyal, long-term customer relationships, personal impact, and conversations with trainers and mentors over chasing aggressive growth targets influenced by VC funding.

Resources:

• Hewitt Tomlin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hewitttomlin
• Teambuildr: https://www.teambuildr.com/
• DRVN Golf App: https://www.drvngolf.com
• Integrity Square: https://www.integritysq.com
• Prospect Wizard: https://www.theprospectwizard.com
• Promotion Vault: https://www.promotionvault.com
• HigherDose: https://www.higherdose.com

On this episode of HALO Talks, host Pete Moore welcomes industry veteran Steve Roderick, the man behind Bozeman, Montana's Ridge Athletic. Steve began his career in the HALO sector serendipitously—thanks to a chance encounter in a Wyoming bar—Roderick talks about how his love for athletics fueled his vision to elevate community health and wellness.

From building the Ridge from the ground up to navigating the constantly evolving landscape of Bozeman, he reflects on the importance of creating a multi-generational, welcoming environment, his strategies for growth, and the value of relationships—both inside the club and across the industry.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, an operator, or a passionate member of the HALO sector, Steve's story is packed with insights on building culture, driving community impact, and staying ahead through collaboration.

When it comes to the secret of building out a great team Roderick jokes, "If you're gonna run a business, the thing you need to do is hire people smarter than you. And I said, 'Well, that's gonna be easy!'"

Key themes discussed

• Origins and evolution of Ridge Athletic.
• Strategic location and real estate development.
• Building brand equity and community presence.
• Facility design and member demo.
• Growth of Bozeman and regional opportunities.
• Creating strong company culture and staff retention.
• Importance of networking and industry learning.

A Few Key Takeaways:

1.Building from the Ground Up and Taking Risks: Roderick got his (very) unexpected start in the fitness club business when he was literally handed the keys to a 30,000 square foot facility in Wyoming that was going out of business. He didn't know much about running a gym but dove in, learned quickly, and eventually built his own fitness center from scratch in Bozeman.

2. The Importance of Location and Vision: When developing Ridge Athletic, Steve chose a piece of land on the outskirts of Bozeman, trusting that the community would eventually grow around the facility. Over time, his vision proved spot-on, with Bozeman's expansion making The Ridge a hub of activity and fitness in the center of town.

3. Community and Brand Equity: Maintaining both a main facility and a satellite downtown location allowed The Ridge to reach diverse demographics and reinforce its presence. Steve recognized the value of building relationships in the business district while also expanding with a larger, flagship facility.

4. Creating a Welcoming Culture for Staff and Members: A key to The Ridge's success is the positive, team-driven culture Steve built for both employees and members. He focuses on hiring people who are passionate and smarter than himself, fostering an environment where staff feel respected and motivated, which translates to a better experience for members.

5. Catering to All Ages and Building for the Future: The Ridge is intentionally inclusive, offering programs and spaces for everyone—from children to seniors. He emphasizes that creating meaningful programming for kids encourages family memberships and helps foster lifelong fitness habits. He also stresses the need for continued professional growth and industry connection, citing the value of mastermind groups like REX Roundtable.

Resources:

• Steve Roderick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-roderick-735133b3
• Ridge Athletic Club: https://ridgeathletic.com/
• REX Roundtables: https://www.rexroundtables.com
• Integrity Square: https://www.integritysq.com
• Prospect Wizard: https://www.theprospectwizard.com
• Promotion Vault: https://www.promotionvault.com
• HigherDose: https://www.higherdose.com